The Crooked Birdcage

Rating:
Summary: My ... review
Review: Awakened by a commotion early one Saturday morning, Samantha Burnes is less than gracious as she meets her new neighbors. Samantha had spent the week looking forward to sleeping late on the weekend and found her plans destroyed by the handsome man’s family.

When Samantha receives a dinner invitation to Morry’s, her other neighbor, she gladly accepts. Without Samantha’s knowledge, Morry is attempting to fix her up with the new man in the neighborhood, Jon Nicolson. Jon’s two young children instantly win Samantha over, and she finds herself longing to become part of the family.

However, as Samantha and Jon become more intimate, Samantha finds Jon pulling away from her. What is the secret that he is determined to keep from her? Will it tear apart their new relationship?

While the South African location does not get much emphasis within the book, THE CROOKED BIRDCAGE is a satisfying love story. Samantha’s spirited attitude wins over the children, rapidly providing a common bond that draws Jon into her life. Lively narrative and personable characters create an honest relationship to which I could relate.

While Jon’s ‘secret’ may be easy to figure out, THE CROOKED BIRDCAGE still entertained this reader. My biggest complaint is that the story ended. I would love to see Samantha and Jon get tied up in more small predicaments and have the chance to watch the characters blossom as they face each new challenge. Maybe they can return for a series!

Rating:
Summary: Terrific characters -- Recommended
Review: Security expert Jon Nicolson's contradictions leave Samantha Burnes baffled. He seems at once attracted and repelled by her, and Samantha would like to know why. Certainly their unfortunate introduction didn't go well, but she's learned to appreciate noisy children and ragged dogs. Since Jon entered her carefully controlled life, it seems to have taken a dive into chaos.

Jon has a secret with the power to destroy his budding relationship with Samantha. Even as he knows he should withdraw, he can't seem to resist the allure of this feisty lady. As they approach the brink of destruction, their love shimmers and sparkles with newness and beauty. But with criminal forces coming between them, even love may have difficulty finding the way.

As an American, I get big kick out the setting for THE CROOKED BIRD CAGE. Planting tulips that bloom in September, language choices, and attitudes that vary so drastically from my ordinary expectations make for an interesting read. While the plot would have benefited from more fleshing out, the interplay between the characters was terrific. Interfering neighbors, well meaning parents and charming children combine with a strong hero and heroine to create a entertaining read. THE CROOKED BIRD CAGE comes recommended.